Proverbs 29:11

KJV

¶ A fool uttereth all his mind: but a wise [man] keepeth it in till afterwards.

KJV (with Strong's)

A fool {H3684} uttereth {H3318} all his mind {H7307}: but a wise {H2450} man keepeth {H7623} it in till afterwards {H268}.

Complete Jewish Bible

A fool gives vent to all his feelings, but the wise, thinking of afterwards, stills them.

Berean Standard Bible

A fool vents all his anger, but a wise man holds it back.

American Standard Version

A fool uttereth all his anger; But a wise man keepeth it back and stilleth it.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Proverbs 29:11 vividly contrasts the impulsive nature of a fool with the measured discretion of a wise person, particularly concerning speech and the management of one's inner thoughts and emotions. It highlights that a fool unrestrainedly vocalizes every fleeting thought or feeling, often to their detriment, whereas a wise individual exercises self-control, discerning the appropriate time and manner for expression, thereby demonstrating prudence and foresight.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This proverb is situated within the latter part of the Book of Proverbs, specifically within a collection often attributed to Solomon (Proverbs 25-29). This section frequently addresses themes of leadership, justice, and the practical outworking of wisdom in daily life, especially in public and relational spheres. The immediate verses in Proverbs 29 deal with the consequences of unrighteous rulers, the importance of justice, and the impact of personal conduct on society. Verse 10 speaks of violent men, and verse 12 discusses a ruler who listens to lies, setting a backdrop where discernment and controlled speech are vital for societal well-being and personal integrity. This verse, therefore, serves as a foundational principle for navigating complex social interactions, emphasizing that internal discipline is a prerequisite for external order and effective leadership.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Israelite society, like many ancient Near Eastern cultures, placed a high value on wisdom, often associating it with successful living, divine favor, and effective governance. Speech was considered a powerful force, capable of building up or tearing down, fostering peace or inciting conflict. The marketplace, city gates, and royal courts were public forums where words carried significant weight. Impulsive speech could lead to social disgrace, legal trouble, or even physical danger. Conversely, measured and timely words were signs of maturity and respect, often associated with elders and leaders. The concept of the "fool" (Hebrew: *kesil*) was not merely someone lacking intelligence, but someone morally deficient, resistant to instruction, and prone to self-destructive behavior, particularly in their lack of self-control. The "wise man" (*chakham*) was one who lived in harmony with divine principles, exhibiting prudence, discernment, and self-mastery.
* **Key Themes:** Proverbs 29:11 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book. The most prominent is the **contrast between wisdom and folly**, a foundational dichotomy throughout Proverbs. The verse underscores that true wisdom is not merely intellectual knowledge but practical discernment, especially in the realm of **speech and self-control**. It emphasizes that uncontrolled speech is a hallmark of folly, leading to negative consequences, while **discretion and patience** in communication are virtues of wisdom. This aligns with themes found in other proverbs, such as the danger of hasty words in [Proverbs 15:28](/proverbs/15-28 "Proverbs 15:28 - The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer"), or the power of a gentle answer to turn away wrath in [Proverbs 15:1](/proverbs/15-1 "Proverbs 15:1 - A soft answer turns away wrath"). The verse also subtly touches upon the theme of **emotional regulation**, implying that the fool allows emotions to dictate speech, while the wise person processes them before responding.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **fool (Hebrew, _kᵉçîyl'_):** From H3684, this term denotes someone who is properly "fat," but figuratively "stupid or silly." In the context of Proverbs, *kᵉçîyl* describes a moral and intellectual dullness, a person who is resistant to wisdom, instruction, and correction. This "fool" is not merely unintelligent but characterized by a lack of discernment, impulsivity, and a disregard for consequences, often leading to self-inflicted harm or social disruption.
* **uttereth (Hebrew, _yâtsâʼ'_):** From H3318, this primitive root means "to go out" or "to bring out." Here, it signifies the act of releasing or expressing. When applied to the fool's mind, it conveys the idea of an unrestrained outpouring, a complete and unfiltered verbalization of every thought, feeling, or impulse without consideration for timing, appropriateness, or impact.
* **mind (Hebrew, _rûwach'_):** From H7307, this word commonly means "wind," "breath," or "spirit." In this context, it refers to the inner disposition, thoughts, feelings, or the entirety of one's inner being. The fool "uttereth all his *rûwach*," meaning they expose their entire inner world—their raw emotions, unfiltered opinions, and immediate reactions—without any internal processing or external discretion.
* **wise (Hebrew, _châkâm'_):** From H2450, this term describes someone who is "intelligent, skillful, or artful." In the wisdom literature, *châkâm* signifies a person who possesses practical wisdom, which involves not only knowledge but also the ability to apply it discerningly in real-life situations. This includes self-control, foresight, and the capacity to navigate complex social dynamics effectively.
* **keepeth it in (Hebrew, _shâbach'_):** From H7623, this primitive root means "to address in a loud tone" but also "to pacify (as if by words)," "to still," or "to restrain." In this verse, it carries the sense of quietening, holding back, or restraining. The wise person actively chooses to "still" or "keep in" their thoughts and emotions, not suppressing them entirely but exercising deliberate control over their expression until the opportune moment.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"A fool uttereth all his mind:"** This clause describes the characteristic behavior of the *kᵉçîyl*. The fool lacks self-control and discernment, impulsively giving voice to every thought, emotion, or opinion that arises within them. There is no filter, no consideration of consequence, and no regard for the context or audience. This unrestrained outpouring often leads to regret, conflict, or the revelation of inappropriate information.
* **"but a wise [man] keepeth it in till afterwards."** This clause presents a stark contrast to the fool. The *châkâm*, or wise person, demonstrates profound self-mastery. Instead of immediate utterance, they actively restrain their thoughts and feelings. The phrase "till afterwards" implies a deliberate process of evaluation—waiting for the right time, the right place, or the right manner to speak, or perhaps choosing not to speak at all. This restraint is not suppression but strategic discernment, allowing for a more thoughtful and impactful communication, or the avoidance of unnecessary harm.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device employed in Proverbs 29:11 is **Antithetical Parallelism**, where the second line presents a direct contrast to the first, highlighting the opposing characteristics and behaviors of the fool and the wise person. This structure effectively emphasizes the moral and practical distinction between the two. The verse also utilizes **Personification**, attributing distinct actions and qualities to the abstract concepts of "fool" and "wise man," making their behaviors tangible and relatable. Furthermore, there is an element of **Hyperbole** in "all his mind," suggesting the fool's complete lack of filter, which underscores the extreme nature of their impulsivity. The concise, memorable phrasing is characteristic of the **Proverbial Form**, designed for easy recall and profound impact.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This proverb deeply engages with the biblical understanding of wisdom as a practical, God-given virtue that shapes one's character and conduct, particularly in the critical domain of speech. It underscores that true wisdom involves not just knowing what to say, but knowing when and how to say it, or even when to remain silent. This discretion is rooted in self-control, a fruit of the Spirit ([Galatians 5:22-23](/galatians/5-22 "Galatians 5:22-23 - The Fruit of the Spirit")), and reflects a heart that is not ruled by impulse but by divine guidance. The contrast between the fool's unrestrained speech and the wise person's measured words highlights the profound impact of communication on relationships, reputation, and spiritual maturity. It teaches that wisdom often manifests in restraint, patience, and thoughtful consideration, preventing the damage that can arise from rash or ill-timed utterances.

* [Proverbs 10:19](/proverbs/10-19 "Proverbs 10:19 - In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin")
* [James 1:19](/james/1-19 "James 1:19 - Be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath")
* [Ecclesiastes 3:7](/ecclesiastes/3-7 "Ecclesiastes 3:7 - A time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Proverbs 29:11 offers timeless wisdom that is profoundly relevant in our contemporary world, especially given the pervasive nature of instant communication through social media and digital platforms. The temptation to "utter all one's mind" has never been greater, as thoughts, opinions, and emotional reactions can be broadcast globally in mere seconds. This proverb calls us to cultivate a deep sense of self-awareness and self-control, recognizing that not every thought needs to be expressed, and not every feeling needs immediate articulation. True wisdom involves pausing, reflecting, and discerning the potential impact of our words before they leave our lips or our keyboards. It encourages us to develop the discipline to "keep it in till afterwards," allowing emotions to settle, thoughts to be refined, and intentions to be clarified. This practice can prevent misunderstandings, preserve relationships, protect our reputation, and foster an environment of thoughtful, constructive dialogue rather than impulsive, reactive outbursts. Embracing this proverb means valuing discretion over immediate gratification, and recognizing that silence, or well-timed speech, can be far more powerful and beneficial than an unbridled outpouring.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life am I most prone to "utter all my mind" impulsively, and what are the typical consequences?**
* **How can I cultivate a greater habit of pausing and reflecting before speaking or communicating, especially in emotionally charged situations?**
* **What are specific practical steps I can take to "keep it in till afterwards," allowing for more thoughtful and intentional communication?**

### FAQ

**What does "uttereth all his mind" mean in practical terms?**

Answer: "Uttereth all his mind" means that a fool expresses every thought, feeling, or opinion without any filter, restraint, or consideration for the consequences. This includes blurting out secrets, reacting emotionally in anger, sharing inappropriate information, or speaking without thinking through the implications of their words. It signifies a complete lack of self-control and discretion in communication.

**Is it always wrong to express one's thoughts and feelings openly?**

Answer: Not at all. The proverb is not advocating for suppression of thoughts or emotions, but for wise discernment in their expression. There is a time and place for open, honest communication, and healthy relationships require vulnerability. The key is the "till afterwards" aspect for the wise person—it's about timing, context, and intentionality. A wise person processes their thoughts and feelings, choosing the appropriate moment and manner to express them constructively, rather than impulsively or destructively. As [Ecclesiastes 3:7](/ecclesiastes/3-7 "Ecclesiastes 3:7 - A time to be silent and a time to speak") states, there is "a time to be silent and a time to speak."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Proverbs 29:11 finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person of Jesus Christ, who perfectly embodies divine wisdom and self-control in speech. Unlike the fool who "uttereth all his mind," Jesus consistently demonstrated profound discretion, speaking only what the Father willed and at the appointed time. His words were always measured, purposeful, and full of grace and truth ([John 1:14](/john/1-14 "John 1:14 - The Word became flesh")). We see His perfect "keeping it in till afterwards" in His strategic silence before His accusers ([Matthew 27:12-14](/matthew/27-12 "Matthew 27:12-14 - Jesus' Silence Before Pilate")), His patient teaching of disciples who often misunderstood ([Mark 9:32](/mark/9-32 "Mark 9:32 - Disciples did not understand")), and His deliberate timing in revealing His Messiahship ([John 2:4](/john/2-4 "John 2:4 - Jesus' response to Mary at Cana")). Jesus, as the very Wisdom of God ([1 Corinthians 1:24](/1_corinthians/1-24 "1 Corinthians 1:24 - Christ the Power and Wisdom of God")), perfectly models how to manage the inner self and communicate with divine precision, always for the glory of God and the good of humanity. His life teaches us that true wisdom is not found in an unbridled outpouring, but in the Spirit-led discipline of speaking truth in love, at the right moment, and with eternal purpose, reflecting the very heart of God.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Proverbs 19:11

¶ The discretion of a man deferreth his anger; and [it is] his glory to pass over a transgression.

Proverbs 12:16

¶ A fool's wrath is presently known: but a prudent [man] covereth shame.

Micah 7:5

Trust ye not in a friend, put ye not confidence in a guide: keep the doors of thy mouth from her that lieth in thy bosom.

Amos 5:13

Therefore the prudent shall keep silence in that time; for it [is] an evil time.

Proverbs 14:33

¶ Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but [that which is] in the midst of fools is made known.

Proverbs 12:23

¶ A prudent man concealeth knowledge: but the heart of fools proclaimeth foolishness.

Judges 16:17

That he told her all his heart, and said unto her, There hath not come a razor upon mine head; for I [have been] a Nazarite unto God from my mother's womb: if I be shaven, then my strength will go from me, and I shall become weak, and be like any [other] man.